UK Government weighs tariffs on Chinese EVs as Burnham prepares EU talks on Made in Europe rules
By Eve
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has asked officials to examine potential tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle imports, according to reports in the Daily Telegraph, The Times and Financial Times. Prime Minister Andy Burnham is considering the move ahead of meetings with EU leaders, as the UK seeks inclusion in the EU's Made in Europe programme to avoid trade barriers when the rules are debated at year end. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has warned that exclusion from Made in Europe provisions would deny UK built vehicles access to EU incentives and member state procurement, putting domestic production at a competitive disadvantage in its largest market.
Why it matters
Any tariff regime or exclusion from EU procurement frameworks could reshape the competitive landscape for charge point operators serving fleets, as Chinese EV brands now rank among the UK's most popular purchases. UK manufacturers fear reciprocal Chinese tariffs would reduce domestic vehicle demand and sourcing of EU components, potentially affecting the scale and location of fleet electrification projects.
Source
- Original title
- “UK Government considers tariffs on Chinese EVs”
- Published
- 8 October 2026
In this story
- Topic
- Policy & Market
- Place
- United Kingdom
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